RESUMEN
Background: Age is one of the key risk factors for falls. The prevalence of falls in Indian older adults is seen to be 14 to 53%. The economic consequences of falls are critical to family, community and society. The main risk factors for falls are divided into four dimensions-biological, behavioural, environmental and socioeconomic factors. The risk of falling is increased by the interaction of biological with behavioural and environmental factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 community-dwelling elderly with moderate to high risk of falls (0-40/56 on Berg Balance scale) and no history of upper or lower limb injury. Convenience sampling method was used. After taking their consent, elderly were assessed for their risk of falls on Berg Balance Scale. Participants fulfilling the criteria were presented with a self-made questionnaire about practice of environmental modifications and identification of its barriers. Results: 31% of the elderly individuals experienced falls in the past one year with four being the average number of falls experienced. The study showed that the elderly are practising at least a few modifications in each domain. Lack of available information (95%) was the most perceived barrier. Conclusions: The study showed that all the elderly are practising at least a few modifications in every domain. The barriers identified in the study need to be worked upon for an efficient practice of modifications thereby contributing to fall prevention.
RESUMEN
Background: Falls are considered to be one of the “geriatric giants”. The living room, bathroom, bedroom and staircase are common areas where falls occur within home. Many elderlies who fall even if they remain uninjured, become apprehensive causing them to cut down on their activities of daily living and becoming less active, weaker, further increasing their chances of falling. Therefore, it’s of paramount importance to scrutinize the awareness about the home modifications. The study was conducted to examine if the general population is aware of the home modifications necessary to prevent falls in community dwelling elderly. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in 300people between 30 to 50 years old who were not medical professionals. Convenience sampling was used. A self-structured questionnaire was prepared and clearance of ethical committee was obtained. After taking people’s consent they were asked to fill the questionnaire. Results: Results show that out of 300 participants people are aware of non-slippery floors (70%), railings at the staircase (62%). People are least aware of the following modifications: glare free paints (20%), door knobs can be replaced with lever handle (40%), install adhesive strips on the staircase (30%). Conclusions: Results show that out of 300 participants people are aware of non-slippery floors (70%), railings at the staircase (62%). People are least aware of the following modifications: glare free paints (20%), door knobs can be replaced with lever handle (40%), install adhesive strips on the staircase (30%).
RESUMEN
Background: Physiotherapy is a modern science and an independent profession. Physiotherapists are expected to conduct professional practice according to the existing laws and follow the guidelines of the respective state councils. Awareness about patients’ rights is increasing, as are malpractice cases and as professionals who are in constant contact with their clients, physiotherapists need to safeguard themselves from a medicolegal perspective. Having appropriate knowledge of medicolegal aspects and practicing accordingly will protect them against legal damages while maintaining professional integrity. This study aimed to find the level of medicolegal knowledge and its practice among physiotherapists in Maharashtra. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted in Maharashtra, India. A self-made, validated questionnaire was distributed online and 100 physiotherapists across Maharashtra, accessed via the convenience sampling method, were surveyed. The collected data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: The average knowledge was 50.38%, but the average correct practice was 71.86%. These findings showed that the physiotherapists were practicing according to basic knowledge and they needed to improve their knowledge of aspects such as the Maharashtra Act II of 2004, documentation, applicable laws and professional indemnity to practice with unquestionable protection against legal proceedings. Conclusions: Physiotherapists in Maharashtra have basic knowledge of the governing body and of the legal aspects of their profession. With medical negligence cases on the rise, they need to update themselves about the details to conduct a safe and efficient practice. This will enhance their professional competence and provide legal and financial security.